Pregnancy Chances: Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

What is the probability of getting pregnant?

Hello, my menstrual cycle is about 30-32 days long.
I had sexual intercourse on April 22, using a condom that did not break, but that day was the last day of my fertile window.
I expect my period to start around May 1 or May 3.
Starting on April 25, I began experiencing breast tenderness and increased discharge, and sometimes I feel symptoms similar to those before my period, along with frequent fatigue.
Are these signs that my period is approaching?
On April 29, I took a pregnancy test in the morning, and it showed one line.
Does this mean I don't have to worry about being pregnant? I've been quite anxious lately; in the past, when my period was about to start, my breasts would hurt less, and then my period would come.
However, this time, as May approaches, my breasts are still quite tender.
Should I be concerned, or is my period likely to come? This month, I only had that one instance of sexual intercourse.
Will my period come? Thank you.

Cindy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/29

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The menstrual cycle is approximately 30-32 days long.
I had sexual intercourse on April 22, using a condom that did not break, but that day was the last day of my fertile window.
I expect my period to start around May 1 or May 3.
Starting on April 25, I began experiencing breast tenderness and increased discharge, and I occasionally feel symptoms similar to those before my period, along with frequent fatigue.
Are these signs that my period is approaching?
Answer: Yes.
On April 29, I took a pregnancy test in the morning, and it showed one line.
Does this mean I don't need to worry about being pregnant?
Answer: Yes.
Recently, I've been quite anxious.
Previously, when my period was about to start, my breasts would hurt less, and then my period would come.
However, this time, as May approaches, my breasts still feel quite full.
Should I be concerned, or will my period come?
Answer: Your period will come.
This month, I only had sexual intercourse that one time.
Will my period come?
Answer: Yes, your period will come.

Reply Date: 2019/04/29

More Info

Understanding the signs and symptoms of pregnancy can be quite complex, especially when considering the timing of your menstrual cycle and the events surrounding potential conception. Based on your description, you have a regular menstrual cycle of approximately 30-32 days, and you had unprotected intercourse on April 22, which was close to the end of your fertile window. You are expecting your period around May 1 or May 3.

The symptoms you are experiencing, such as breast tenderness, increased vaginal discharge, and a feeling of heaviness in your lower abdomen, can indeed be indicative of either an impending menstrual period or early pregnancy. These symptoms are often caused by hormonal changes that occur during the luteal phase of your cycle, which follows ovulation. In this phase, the body prepares for a possible pregnancy by increasing levels of progesterone, which can lead to breast tenderness and other premenstrual symptoms.

Regarding your pregnancy test on April 29, if it showed only one line, this typically indicates a negative result, suggesting that you are not pregnant. However, it is important to note that home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. Since your period is expected shortly, testing too early can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if implantation has just occurred and hCG levels are still low.

Given that you are experiencing symptoms that are commonly associated with both premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and early pregnancy, it is understandable to feel anxious. The fact that you have had only one instance of unprotected intercourse and used protection (a condom) during that encounter reduces the likelihood of pregnancy, especially if the condom did not break. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and there is always a small chance of pregnancy if intercourse occurs during the fertile window.

If your period does not arrive by the expected date, it would be advisable to take another pregnancy test a few days later for confirmation. If you continue to experience symptoms such as breast tenderness and abdominal discomfort, and your period is delayed, it may be worth consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can provide guidance on what to expect and help address any concerns you may have.

In summary, while the symptoms you are experiencing could indicate that your period is approaching, they could also be early signs of pregnancy. The negative pregnancy test result is reassuring, but if your period does not come as expected, retesting or consulting a healthcare professional would be prudent. Remember, stress and anxiety can also affect your menstrual cycle, so try to take care of your mental well-being during this time.

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